Patrocinio Garvizu Salazar passed away on August 30, 2026 at the age of 60. He worked for the Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) in Bolivia for more than 30 years. During that time, he met and supported many people, offering guidance and sharing his knowledge of agriculture and plants.

Salazar was born into an indigenous Quechua family in the Mizque Province of Bolivia’s Cochabamba Department. He worked as a local staff member for MCC since 1995, making him the longest-serving MCC employee in Bolivia.

Patro (as he was always called) worked at MCC as coordinator for rural programs. He supported partners in implementing food security projects and worked with small-scale farmers in various regions of Bolivia. Patro was particularly involved in many projects in the Charagua area.  

He helped build water wells and assisted families in establishing gardens and growing fruit and vegetables. He carried out this work both in the Mennonite colonies and among the indigenous Guarani people. Patro was always ready to help. 

Since March 2025, Die Mennotische Post published his contributions in a column called “Life in the Countryside.” In these pieces, he wrote about agriculture and rural life in Bolivia, sharing his knowledge and experiences. Patro had also previously written articles for many years in Der Bote. 

Patro was a man of few words, but when he spoke, everyone listened. Over the last 30 years, hundreds of people have met and come to know Patro. 

Patro had his own orchard near El Torno. There, he and his family planted various types of fruit and sold the produce. He is survived by his wife, Cresencia, and his two children, Isaac (22) and Noemy (20). 

“To us, he was not just an MCC staff member, but a good friend, mentor, and colleague,” wrote Fredy Hiebert in the September 11 issue of Die Mennonitische Post. “As a Bolivian himself, he was often able to help us — as foreigners — better understand the people and the culture. He showed us what we should do and what we were better off avoiding. Throughout this, he was always patient and helpful. Whenever we had questions, he took the time to listen to us. 

“With Patro’s passing, MCC Bolivia loses long-time staff member and friend.”

Originally published in Die Mennonitische Post on September 11, 2026. Used with permission.